Lhasa Travel Tips

Traveling to Lhasa: Key Cultural Etiquette Tips

Lhasa, the capital of Tibet and a city steeped in rich history and spirituality, is a unique destination. To ensure a respectful and enjoyable trip, it’s crucial to understand and follow local customs:

General Respect and Politeness:

  • Respect Tibetan Buddhism: Lhasa is a deeply religious city. Be mindful and respectful of temples, monasteries, and monks/nuns. Remember to remove your shoes before entering any religious site, and avoid stepping on thresholds or over prayer wheels.
  • Dress modestly: Avoid wearing revealing clothing such as shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts. This is especially important when visiting religious sites.
  • Avoid pointing with your fingers: Instead, use your whole hand to point. Pointing with a single finger is considered rude.
  • Be mindful of your voice:

Tibetans are generally quiet and reserved people, so avoid being too loud or boisterous, especially in sacred places.

  • Use your right hand for eating and giving/receiving objects: The left hand is considered unclean in Tibetan culture.
  • Avoid pointing at people or sacred objects with your feet: This gesture is considered disrespectful.

Photography and Interactions:

  • Ask permission before photographing: Always ask for permission before taking pictures of monks, nuns, religious ceremonies, or locals, even outside temples.

  • Respect the wishes of the Tibetan people: Some Tibetans may object to being photographed due to religious beliefs or personal privacy.

  • Avoid photographing sensitive areas: Be cautious about photographing political imagery within temples and monasteries. It’s best to check with a guide or local expert if you are unsure.

General Tips:

  • Respect for the Dalai Lama: Avoid any disrespect towards the image of the Dalai Lama, who is revered by Tibetans as a spiritual leader.

  • Learn some Tibetan phrases: Even simple greetings like “Tashi Delek” (hello/good luck) or “Tashi Delek” (thank you) in Tibetan will be appreciated.

  • Be patient with language barriers: Not all Tibetans speak Mandarin, so having a guide who speaks English or your preferred language is essential for a smooth experience.

  • Respect the environment: Lhasa is located at a high altitude and the environment can be harsh. Dispose of trash responsibly and avoid damaging any religious sites or natural landmarks.

At Religious Sites:

  • Walk clockwise around prayer wheels: This is a fundamental practice in Tibetan Buddhism, signifying respect for the teachings and symbols of the faith.
  • Respect the sacred space: Avoid loud talking, laughing loudly, and making any negative comments about the Dalai Lama or Tibetan Buddhism.
  • Dress Appropriately:

Always dress respectfully when visiting temples and monasteries.

  • Avoid stepping on the threshold: It is considered disrespectful to step on the threshold of a doorway in Tibetan culture.

  • Photography etiquette:

Some religious sites may have restrictions on taking photographs. Be sure to ask permission or check for signs indicating whether photography is allowed.

  • Respecting the sacred: Don’t take photos of monks/nuns while they are praying, meditating, or performing rituals.

General Practices:

  • Taking photos: While visiting religious sites, it’s crucial to be respectful and refrain from taking photos of monks/nuns during prayer ceremonies.
  • Photography requests: Always ask permission before taking pictures of people or objects at a temple.

If you are unsure about whether something is acceptable to photograph, it’s best to ask a guide or monk for guidance.

Respecting the local culture:

  • Remove your shoes: This is a common practice in Tibetan monasteries and temples.
  • Don’t take pictures of someone’s face without permission.

Other Considerations:

  • Dress appropriately: Avoid clothing that is overly revealing, flashy, or has offensive slogans or imagery.

  • Respect for the sacred: Remember that these are places of worship. Avoid taking photos during religious ceremonies or rituals unless you have explicit permission.

  • Be mindful of your belongings: Always keep a close eye on your bags and belongings when visiting any public place.

Additional Tips for Respectful Photography at Religious Sites:

  • Respect for the sacred:

Remember to be respectful in your approach and demeanor.

  • Photography fees: Many religious sites charge a fee for photography. Be prepared to pay this small amount to respect their rules and support the upkeep of the site.
  • No flash photography: Flash photography can be disrespectful in many religious settings, as it is believed that the use of flash could disturb the energy of the place.

Respectful behavior towards monks and locals:

  • Avoid pointing with your finger. Pointing is considered rude, so use a gesture with your whole hand to avoid this.

  • Ask permission before taking photos of people or their belongings. It’s a sign of respect and many Tibetans will be happy to pose for you for a small donation.

  • Respect for religious objects: Avoid touching religious objects in temples unless it’s specifically allowed by monks.

  • Respect for the sacred: Always remember that photography is not allowed in all areas of a temple. Be observant and respectful of any signs or instructions given.

Remember:

  • Photography within certain areas of a monastery or temple may be restricted. This is often the case with sacred images, religious figures, or monks during religious activities.

  • Respect for local customs: Photography etiquette extends beyond the confines of a temple. It’s important to be aware that many Tibetans are mindful of their cultural heritage and consider it disrespectful to photograph sacred objects or people without permission.

  • Be respectful of the environment

  • Consider carrying small denominations: Many Tibetan vendors and monks will accept payment for photos in the form of donations, so carry small bills to make giving easier.

  • Respect for local customs: Always ask a guide or monk before taking any photos inside a temple.